Square Enix released a special trailer for the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy X, marking the same day the iconic JRPG celebrates a quarter century since its PlayStation 2 release. The date is symbolic: the original was released on July 19, 2001. And on July 23, the Final Fantasy X | X-2 HD Remaster will arrive on the Nintendo Switch 2 with Full HD graphics, remastered music, and a mode without random encounters. The digital version is priced at 6,688 yen (approximately $49.99).
The anniversary trailer brings together key moments from Tidus and Yuna’s journey through Spira, from their first encounter in the ruins of Zanarkand to the final battle with Sin. The trailer is now available on the publisher’s official YouTube channel. The video description includes a link to pre-order on the Nintendo eShop, which launched on June 9.
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Overview of Final Fantasy X Anniversary Trailer
Square Enix celebrated the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy X not just with a press release, but with a full-fledged commemorative video. The video features scenes from both games in the collection: the first game and its sequel, X-2. The trailer does not reveal any new gameplay details, but it serves as an emotional anchor for fans, reminding them why this JRPG is still considered one of the most iconic of all time.
Key Scenes and Nostalgic Footage
The focus is on key scenes featuring Tidus, Yuna, her guardians, and, of course, Sin. The creators did not overload the video with new footage, opting for nostalgia. The video is approximately two minutes long and ends with a shot of the 25th anniversary logo and the Switch 2 release date.
JRPG History and 25 Years Since PS2 Release
Final Fantasy X first released on PlayStation 2 on July 19, 2001. 25 years later, the game remains a benchmark for the genre: a story about a summoner’s pilgrimage, a dramatic ending, and graphics that were revolutionary for their time. To mark the anniversary, Square Enix also launched a collaboration with Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent—the event will run until August 13th.
Final Fantasy X Release on Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 version is a full-fledged update with a number of technical and gameplay improvements not even present in the original Switch release.
Full HD Graphics and Gameplay Enhancements
The list of upgrades is impressive:
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Graphics. Characters, monsters, and backgrounds have been completely reworked in Full HD—a resolution significantly higher than on Switch.
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Music. The soundtrack has been completely remastered and re-arranged.
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International Content. Elements from Final Fantasy X International and X-2 International, previously unreleased in the West, have been added.
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High-Speed Mode. A faster playthrough for those who want to replay the game or quickly refresh the story.
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Disable Random Encounters. You can disable random encounters and explore Spira without constant interruptions for battles.
The suite of Quality of Life features is nearly complete. It includes acceleration, character leveling, and battle frequency adjustments. Players can decide for themselves how to play: thoughtfully, immersing themselves in every battle, or quickly, following the storyline exclusively.
Remaster Price and eShop Release Date
The digital version will be available on the Nintendo eShop on July 23, 2026. It will cost 6,688 yen including tax. Prices for other regions have not been announced yet, but the standard remaster price is $49.99 / €49.99.
Release Date and Features of Disc Edition
The physical version, however, is more complicated. The physical version will be released later, on August 27, 2026, and only in limited regions, primarily in Asia. It comes with a special leak case featuring the Final Fantasy X 25th Anniversary logo. The physical edition will cost 7,480 yen.
Important note: saves from the Nintendo Switch version do not transfer to the Switch 2. Square Enix has explicitly stated this in the eShop description. So, if you have already completed the game on the original Switch, you will have to start over.
Differences Between HD Remaster and Original
The HD Remaster combines Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2 in a single edition, rather than simply upscaling the original game.
International Version Content and Audio Drama
The remaster includes elements from the International versions, which were originally exclusive to Japan. This applies to both the combat system and additional scenes. FFX includes dark aeons and the Expert grid sphere, while X-2 includes additional classes and dungeons. The collection also includes the audio drama “The Will,” an episode that takes place after the events of X-2.
New Features for Comfortable Playthrough
The main difference between the remaster and the PS2 original is convenience. A faster mode, disabling random battles, and the ability to strengthen characters with a single button are available. For those who played in 2001, this is not just “better graphics,” but a fundamentally different experience. Now you do not have to spend hours grinding to access the final boss.
Final Fantasy X Plot and Cult Status
In case you missed it, here’s a quick but satisfying summary.
Tidus and Yuna Journey Through World of Spira
Final Fantasy X tells the story of Tidus, a blitzball star from Zanarkand, who is transported to the world of Spira by the monstrous creature Sin. There, he meets Yuna, a young summoner who embarks on a pilgrimage to save the world from an eternal cycle of destruction. Together with the Guardians—Wakka, Lulu, Kimari, Rikku, and Auron—they travel across Spira, gather Aeons, and prepare for the final battle.
X-2, meanwhile, takes place two years after the conclusion of the first game. Yuna has become an Orb Hunter and, together with Rikku and her new ally, Paine, investigates the mystery of a mysterious video showing a man who bears a suspicious resemblance to Tidus.
Impact of 3D JRPGs on Gaming Industry
Final Fantasy X was the first game in the series to feature full 3D graphics, the first to feature voice acting, and one of the few where the romance between the main characters became the core of the game’s plot. Even 25 years later, the game remains among the top JRPGs of all time. Its influence on the genre is colossal, from its Conditional Turn-Based Battle (CTB) system to its emotionally charged ending, which is still discussed on forums.
Incidentally, in honor of the anniversary, Square Enix also released the Zanarkand Compilation Album, which was released in Japan on July 1st. Artbooks, plushies, and even gacha events featuring Tidus can be found on the official 25th anniversary website.
Final Fantasy X never gets old. It’s becoming more accessible. Coming July 23rd to Nintendo Switch 2, it features improved graphics, remastered music, and modes that transform the classic into a modern experience. If you have not played it, now is the perfect time. If you have played it, it is worth replaying it on Switch 2, if only to see Spira in Full HD.
